This summer, like the rest of 2020, is going to feel very different. As lockdown starts to ease and more shops start to open up things will start to feel like we are getting back to normal. However, large gatherings such as music festivals and sports events are still out of the question – so is heading to the nearest beer garden or food festival to relax after a hard days work. But, there are alternatives to keep you occupied over the summer months, so here’s a few of our ideas.
The Great Outdoors
As the good weather continues (hopefully) there are plenty of green spaces to head to in the Greater Manchester area that are great for long walks and socially distant meet-ups with friends. If you’re starting to get bored of Platt Fields and Whitworth Park, why not venture a bit further a field? There’s Heaton Park in North Manchester, Fletcher Moss Gardens in Didsbury, and for longer trails there’s Sale Water Park and Reddish Vale Country Park.
Alternatively, if you want get a bit more exercise than walking, there are lots of cycle paths around Greater Manchester to discover, such as the Fallowfield loop, Bridgewater Way and Clayton Vale mountain bike trail. Some are a mixture of off and on road cycling, whereas others offer traffic free cycling along Manchester’s canals. You can find all the cycle paths here.
This month didn’t just see the re-opening of shops, but some National Trust gardens and parklands have also been able to partly open again. You need to pre-book your visit in advance but Dunham Massey, Lyme Park and Tatton Park are now open for visitors. Added to this Chester Zoo is now back open for business, you can book your visit here.
Music
Summer tends to be synonymous with festivals and music, but with coronavirus still stopping mass gatherings this year we’ll have to miss out on the British tradition of singing in the rain in mud soaked shoes. However many festivals are moving online so you don’t miss out on the music this summer.
Celebrate Glastonbury’s 50th anniversary virtually with the best performances of the past fifty years this week 25th June – 28th June with BBC sounds and BBC iplayer. You can see the full schedule here.
Wireless festival UK and USA promoters and performers are joining forces to deliver Wireless Connect from 3rd – 5th July. There will be brand new pre-recorded performances to view virtually, with the full schedule to be announced soon.
Manchester is also keeping its vibrant music scene going through United We Stream. Hosting daily events viewers can stream all events live, but viewers are encouraged to donate money to the cities cultural and charity organisations.
Culture Vultures
As in previous months you’ll still be able to virtually visit museums and galleries not just here in Manchester, but all over the world. If you’re feeling a little nostalgic for the University why virtual tour of Manchester Museum. Alternatively discover live theatre, opera and musicals in the comfort of your own home with The Lowery online. There are also plenty of online sessions and activities available from Manchester Art Gallery and the Museum Science Group which MOSI belongs to.
You can also discover some of Manchester’s other best arts and culture venues without leaving home here.
Whether you are staying in or going out (being socially distant), stay safe and healthy this summer.